Duties/Responsibilities
- Commercialisation Pipeline Support and Documentation
- Partnership Development
- Licensing Support
- Spinout Support
- Commercialisation Forum Secretariat Support
- Reporting, M&E and Benefits Tracking
Minimum requirements
- A tertiary qualification / University degree (or higher) in Commerce or
- Science/Engineering or Innovation/Entrepreneurship
- Short courses in Innovation management, Entrepreneurship development, Technology transfer,
- Project management, or Venture building, will be an added advantage
- 3 years experience in Technology transfer, Commercialisation, early-stage venture or enterprise development with demonstrable exposure to at least two of the following:
- Preparing pitch decks, one-pagers and market briefs
- Supporting the drafting and routing of term sheets or licence documents
- Spinout operations support (CIPC filings, basic compliance packs)
- Start-up support (meeting logistics, grant/proposal support, tracking KPIs)
- Identification and engagement of prospective Commercialisation partners
- Fundraising processes (grant applications, diligence checklists)
- Drafting/routing of license documents
- Establishment and aftercare of spinouts/start-ups
Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours)
- Commitment to the development and Commercialisation of research-based innovations
- Working knowledge of the innovation value chain and university Commercialisation processes
- Stakeholder coordination skills (researchers, advisors, investors, industry)
- Basic understanding of early-stage funding pathways and deal documentation
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Strong interpersonal skills, organisational skills, time management skills
- Ability to multi-task; meticulous attention to detail
- High computer literacy
- Ability to work in a team and independently
- Reporting and presentation skills
- Familiarity with CIPC compliance, Commercialisation of publicly funded R&D outputs
- Experience with basic analytics dashboards
- Event coordination and external-facing professionalism
- Initiative, curiosity, and a continuous-improvement mindset
Detailed Description
Job Requirements
Additional Details
How To Apply
To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link: https://wits-enterprise.co.za/vacancies/55596/business-development-officer-commercialisation-venture-support-3-year-fixed-term-contract/
For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email
on recruitment.witsenterprise@wits.ac.za
Closing date: 12 September 2025, close of business
The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.
Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
Currency
Amount of Travel
Work At Home